The Role of Masjid Al-Aqsa in The Narratives of Palestinian Literature

Authors

  • Dr. Muhammad Atif Aftab Postdoctoral Fellow Islamic Research Institute, International Islamic University Islamabad - Pakistan & Chairman Department of Islamic Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences & Humanities, Hamdard University Karachi.
  • Dr. Muhammad Sohail Shafiq Associate Professor & Chairman, Department of Islamic History, University of Karachi.
  • Dr. Syed Muhammad Arsalan Shoeby Assistant Professor, Faculty of Social Sciences & Humanities Metropolitan University Karachi.

Keywords:

Masjid Al-Aqsa, Palestinian literature, Identity, Resistance, Cultural heritage

Abstract

For Palestinians, the Al-Aqsa Mosque—which is situated in the center of Jerusalem's Old City—has great cultural and historical significance. It is a potent emblem in Palestinian literature, signifying the people's rich history as well as their continuous fight for independence. A brief synopsis of Masjid Al-Aqsa's place in Palestinian literary narratives is given in this summary. Palestinian literature regularly uses Masjid Al-Aqsa as a main motif. It serves as both a source of inspiration and a symbol of Palestinian national identity for writers. The mosque's prominence in the Palestinian narrative is further highlighted by its historical significance as the third holiest shrine in Islam. Masjid Al-Aqsa is frequently portrayed in Palestinian literature as a place of melancholy and longing. The strong emotional bond that Palestinians, particularly those who have been uprooted from their country, have with the mosque is captured by writers. Poetry, novels, and essays all frequently touch on this sentimental tie, which captures the collective memory of the Palestinian people. Another place of resistance that is portrayed is the Al-Aqsa Mosque. Palestinian authors draw attention to the mosque's resilience in the face of political difficulties like strife and occupation. It represents the Palestinian people's tenacity and will to preserve their religious and cultural heritage. Apart from its symbolic meaning, Palestinian literature often discusses Masjid Al-Aqsa's architectural splendor. Through their descriptions of its elaborate architecture, tranquil courtyards, and historical significance, authors manage to convey the spirit of the mosque. Furthermore, the political and social conflicts around Masjid Al-Aqsa are frequently discussed in Palestinian literature. Authors criticize the barriers that prevent Palestinians from entering the mosque and the numerous threats that it suffers. This emphasizes the larger Palestinian struggle for rights, justice, and self-determination. Finally, it should be noted that Masjid Al-Aqsa is a major emblem of identity, resistance, and cultural legacy in Palestinian literature. Palestinian authors use this hallowed location to illustrate the breadth of their emotional bond, the difficulties they encounter, and their continuous quest for justice. Masjid Al-Aqsa remains a source of inspiration for Palestinian writers and a significant character in their collective narrative through literature.

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10514548

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Published

2023-09-30

How to Cite

Aftab, D. M. A., Shafiq, D. M. S., & Shoeby, D. S. M. A. (2023). The Role of Masjid Al-Aqsa in The Narratives of Palestinian Literature. Al-Aijaz Research Journal of Islamic Studies & Humanities , 7(3), 37-45. Retrieved from https://arjish.com/index.php/arjish/article/view/636

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